“Sleep with Your Eyes Open”, interview with director Nele Wohlatz

During the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival, Fred Film Radio had the privilege of conversing with Nele Wohlatz, the director of “Sleep with Your Eyes Open“, showcased in the Encounters section of the festival. In this interview, Wohlatz delved into the inspiration behind her film, the societal backdrop of a coastal city in Brazil, and the intricate dynamics between its characters.

Unveiling the inspiration

Wohlatz‘s creative journey began with her previous film, “El Futuro Perfecto“, which playfully explored themes of language and identity post-migration. During this period, lead actress Xiaobin Zhang shared her feelings of displacement, sparking Wohlatz‘s desire to create a film that transcends borders and speaks to the universal experience of not belonging.

Navigating cultural clashes

Inspired by filmmaker Kleber Mendonça Filho‘s narrative about the ‘twin towers’ in Recife, Brazil, Nele Wohlatz found the perfect setting to explore cultural clashes and racial prejudice. The ‘twin towers’ served as a microcosm of societal tensions, reflecting the struggles of Chinese immigrants trying to find their place in a foreign land.

The significance of the title

The title “Sleep with your Eyes Open” encapsulates the precarious existence of Chinese immigrants in Recife. Through interviews and observations, Wohlatz discovered a complex system of mutual dependencies and unwritten rules, where staying vigilant and alert became essential for survival amidst uncertainty and homesickness.

Structuring the narrative

Wohlatz challenges traditional storytelling conventions by portraying the relationship between two women, Xiaoxin and Kai, who never meet but whose lives intertwine unexpectedly. By disrupting the hero’s journey archetype, the film offers a fresh perspective on migration and belonging, highlighting the transient nature of human connections.

Cultural collaboration

Collaborating with experienced actors like Nahuel Pérez Biscayart and newcomers, Wohlatz navigated the complexities of language and cultural nuances, fostering an environment of mutual understanding and trust. The cast enriched the narrative through shared experiences and dialogue, contributing to a more authentic portrayal of immigrant life.

Insomnia as a metaphor

The theme of insomnia serves as a metaphor for the blurred boundaries between dreams, nightmares, and wakefulness experienced by the characters. It reflects the disorienting nature of migration and the constant struggle to find a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar environment.

“Sleep with your Eyes Open” reflects the universal desire to belong and the complexities of navigating cultural boundaries. Nele Wohlatz‘s bold vision and collaborative spirit breathe life into a narrative that transcends language and borders, reminding us that “films are not just places we visit but spaces we inhabit and find a home in.”

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